obtest

[ ob-test ]

verb (used with object)

1. to invoke as witness.
2. to supplicate earnestly; beseech.

verb (used without object)

1. to protest.
2. to make supplication; beseech.

obtest

/ ɒbˈtɛst /

verb

1. tr; may take a clause as object or an infinitive to beg (someone) earnestly
2. whentr, takes a clause as object; when intr, may be foll by with or against to object; protest
3. tr to call (a supernatural power) to witness

Derived Forms

• ˌobtesˈtation, noun

Other Words From

• obtes·tation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of obtest¹

1540–50; < Latin obtestārī, equivalent to ob- ob- + test ( is ) a witness + -ārī infinitive suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of obtest¹

C16: from Latin obtestārī to protest, from ob- to + testārī to bear or call as witness

Example Sentences

Obtest, ob-test′, v.t. to call upon, as a witness: to beg for.—v.i. to protest.—n.

From Project Gutenberg

Set in twin ridges black and red, Obtest the foam-sprayed battlements To count the blood-drops on a bench That the coals of Tartarus nurse— Disastrous, imbosked Torture's bed!

From Project Gutenberg

It is not an actor; and it cannot adopt the figured passion of the actor, rend its robe, and flourish, and obtest heaven against the traitor and the oppressor, to the sound of an orchestra, or in the glitter of stage lamps.

From Project Gutenberg

Likewise, we plead and obtest, that a search may be made into, and a review taken of the late toleration, and addressing for it, and acceptance of it, complexly considered: The sinfulness whereof, we could not, and now cannot forbear to witness against.

From Project Gutenberg

In fine, Though we will not take upon us, to propose the time or the way of purging out the episcopal clergy, yet we cannot and dare not forbear, to plead and obtest that they may not be continued, nor kept in the churches whereinto they have intruded; nor re-admitted that are, or may be laid aside, until they give approvable evidence of their repentance, for their sinful conformity.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• ask
• beseech
• implore
• plead
• pray
• solicit
• sue
• urge